Pod assembly, dispensing body, and e-vapor apparatus including the same

ABSTRACT

An e-vapor apparatus may include a pod assembly and a dispensing body configured to receive the pod assembly. A vaporizer may be disposed in the pod assembly and/or the dispensing body. The pod assembly may include a pre-vapor formulation compartment, a device compartment, and a vapor channel extending from the device compartment and traversing the pre-vapor formulation compartment. The pod assembly is a smart pod configured to receive, store, and transmit information that can be communicated with the dispensing body and/or another electronic device. The proximal portion of the dispensing body includes a vapor passage and a through-hole. The vapor passage may extend from an end surface of the proximal portion to a side wall of the through-hole. The through-hole is configured to receive the pod assembly such that the vapor channel of the pod assembly is aligned with the vapor passage of the dispensing body.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation under 35 U.S.C. § 120 of U.S.application Ser. No. 18/190,357, filed Mar. 27, 2023, which is acontinuation under 35 U.S.C. § 120 of U.S. application Ser. No.17/352,781, filed Jun. 21, 2021, which is a continuation under 35 U.S.C.§ 120 of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/661,235, filed Oct. 23, 2019,which is a continuation under 35 U.S.C. § 120 of U.S. application Ser.No. 16/166,899, filed Oct. 22, 2018, which is a continuation under 35U.S.C. § 120 of application Ser. No. 15/334,989, filed Oct. 26, 2016,which is a continuation-in-part under 35 U.S.C. § 120 of U.S.application Ser. No. 14/998,020 (formerly U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 62/151,148), filed Apr. 22, 2015, the entire contents of each ofwhich is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND Field

The present disclosure relates to electronic vapor devices includingself-contained articles including pre-vapor formulations.

Description of Related Art

Some e-vapor devices include a first section coupled to a second sectionvia a threaded connection. The first section may be a replaceablecartridge, and the second section may be a reusable fixture. Thethreaded connection may be a combination of a male threaded member onthe first section and a female threaded receiver on the second section.The first section includes an outer tube (or housing) extending in alongitudinal direction and an inner tube within the outer tube. Theinner tube may be coaxially positioned within the outer tube. The secondsection may also include the outer tube (or housing) extending in alongitudinal direction. The e-vapor device includes a central airpassage defined in part by the inner tube and an upstream seal.Additionally, the e-vapor device includes a reservoir. The reservoir isconfigured to hold a pre-vapor formulation and optionally a storagemedium operable to store the pre-vapor formulation therein. Thereservoir is contained in an outer annulus between the outer tube andthe inner tube. The outer annulus is sealed by the seal at an upstreamend and by a stopper at a downstream end so as to prevent leakage of thepre-vapor formulation from the reservoir.

SUMMARY

An e-vapor apparatus may include a pod assembly, a dispensing bodyconfigured to receive the pod assembly, and/or a vaporizer disposed inat least one of the pod assembly and the dispensing body. The podassembly may include a pre-vapor formulation compartment, a devicecompartment, and a vapor channel extending from the device compartmentand traversing the pre-vapor formulation compartment. The pre-vaporformulation compartment is configured to hold a pre-vapor formulationtherein. The dispensing body includes a proximal portion and an opposingdistal portion. The proximal portion includes a vapor passage and athrough-hole. The vapor passage may extend from an end surface of theproximal portion to a side wall of the through-hole. The through-holemay be between the vapor passage and the distal portion of thedispensing body. The through-hole is configured to receive the podassembly. The vaporizer may be disposed in at least one of the podassembly and the dispensing body. The pre-vapor formulation compartmentof the pod assembly is configured to be in fluidic communication withthe vaporizer during an operation of the e-vapor apparatus such that thepre-vapor formulation from the pre-vapor formulation compartment comesinto thermal contact with the vaporizer. The vaporizer is configured toheat the pre-vapor formulation to produce a vapor that passes throughthe pod assembly via the vapor channel. The through-hole of thedispensing body is configured to receive the pod assembly such that thevapor channel of the pod assembly is aligned with the vapor passage ofthe dispensing body so as to facilitate a delivery of the vapor throughthe vapor passage of the dispensing body.

The pre-vapor formulation compartment of the pod assembly may surroundthe vapor channel. For example, the vapor channel may pass through acenter of the pre-vapor formulation compartment.

Alternatively, the vapor channel may be in a form of a pathway that isarranged along at least one sidewall of the pre-vapor formulationcompartment. For example, the vapor channel may be in a form of aconduit that is arranged in at least one corner of the pre-vaporformulation compartment. The conduit may be arranged in at least twocorners of the pre-vapor formulation compartment and configured toconverge at a position that is aligned with the vapor passage of thedispensing body when the pod assembly is received in the through-hole.

The pre-vapor formulation compartment and the device compartment may beat opposite ends of the pod assembly. The device compartment of the podassembly may include a memory device. The memory device may be codedwith an electronic identity to permit at least one of an authenticationof the pod assembly and a pairing of operating parameters specific to atype of the pod assembly when the pod assembly is inserted into thethrough-hole of the dispensing body. The memory device may also receiveand store information such as operational parameters and usage historyfrom the dispensing body. Once stored, such information in the memorydevice will remain intact even when the pod is detached from thedispensing body.

The pod assembly may include a side surface having at least oneelectrical contact. The dispensing body may be configured to perform atleast one of supply power to and communicate with the pod assembly viathe at least one electrical contact. The at least one electrical contactmay be at an end of the pod assembly corresponding to the devicecompartment.

The dimensions of the through-hole correspond to dimensions of the podassembly. The proximal portion of the dispensing body may include amouthpiece that includes the vapor passage. The vapor channel may bebetween the mouthpiece and the device compartment when the pod assemblyis inserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body. The e-vaporapparatus may further include an attachment structure on at least one ofthe side wall of the through-hole and a side surface of the podassembly. The attachment structure is configured to engage and hold thepod assembly upon insertion into the through-hole of the dispensingbody. The attachment structure enables the pod assembly to be insertedand extracted from the dispensing body by the adult vaper with ease. Theattachment structure also aligns and secures the pod assembly in placein the dispensing body during normal use of the e-vapor apparatus.

A pod assembly for an e-vapor apparatus may include a pre-vaporformulation compartment configured to hold a pre-vapor formulationtherein; a device compartment configured to be in fluidic communicationwith the pre-vapor formulation compartment; and a vapor channelextending from the device compartment and traversing the pre-vaporformulation compartment. The device compartment may include a vaporizer.The device compartment may also include a memory device. A side surfaceof the pod assembly may include at least one electrical contact.

A pod assembly for an e-vapor apparatus may also include a pre-vaporformulation compartment configured to hold a pre-vapor formulationtherein; a vaporizer configured to be in fluidic communication with thepre-vapor formulation compartment; and a vapor channel extending fromthe vaporizer and traversing the pre-vapor formulation compartment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodimentsherein may become more apparent upon review of the detailed descriptionin conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawingsare merely provided for illustrative purposes and should not beinterpreted to limit the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawingsare not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly noted. Forpurposes of clarity, various dimensions of the drawings may have beenexaggerated.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dispensing body of an e-vaporapparatus according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the dispensing body of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the mouthpiece of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the first frame of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the second frame of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the body portion of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the end piece of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another dispensing body of an e-vaporapparatus according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the dispensing body of FIG. 8 .

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the first mouthpiece of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the second mouthpiece of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the first frame of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the frame trim of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the second frame of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a pod assembly of an e-vapor apparatusaccording to an example embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a top view of the pod assembly of FIG. 15 .

FIG. 17 is a side view of the pod assembly of FIG. 15 .

FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the pod assembly of FIG. 15 .

FIG. 19 a perspective view of several pod assemblies according to anexample embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a view of an e-vapor apparatus with a pod assembly insertedin a dispensing body according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 21 illustrates a device system diagram of a dispensing bodyaccording to an example embodiment.

FIG. 22 illustrates a pod system diagram of a dispensing body accordingto an example embodiment.

FIG. 23 is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vaporapparatus according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 24A is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 23 whenassembled and before actuation.

FIG. 24B is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 23when assembled and before actuation.

FIG. 25A is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 23 whenassembled and after actuation.

FIG. 25B is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 23when assembled and after actuation.

FIG. 25C is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assemblyof FIG. 23 when assembled and after actuation.

FIG. 26 is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vaporapparatus according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 27A is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 26 whenassembled and before actuation.

FIG. 27B is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 26when assembled and before actuation.

FIG. 28A is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 26 whenassembled and after actuation.

FIG. 28B is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 26when assembled and after actuation.

FIG. 28C is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assemblyof FIG. 26 when assembled and after actuation.

FIG. 29 is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vaporapparatus according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 30A is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 29 whenassembled and before actuation.

FIG. 30B is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 29when assembled and before actuation.

FIG. 30C is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assemblyof FIG. 29 when assembled and before actuation.

FIG. 31A is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 29 whenassembled and after actuation.

FIG. 31B is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 29when assembled and after actuation.

FIG. 31C is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assemblyof FIG. 29 when assembled and after actuation.

FIG. 32 is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vaporapparatus according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 32 whenassembled.

FIG. 34 is a partial view of an e-vapor apparatus with the pod assemblyof FIG. 33 inserted in a dispensing body according to an exampleembodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to asbeing “on,” “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “covering” another elementor layer, it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or coveringthe other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may bepresent. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directlyon,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another elementor layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Likenumbers refer to like elements throughout the specification. As usedherein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one ormore of the associated listed items.

It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third,etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components,regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions,layers, and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. Theseterms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region,layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a firstelement, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could betermed a second element, component, region, layer, or section withoutdeparting from the teachings of example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms (e.g., “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,”“upper,” and the like) may be used herein for ease of description todescribe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) orfeature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood thatthe spatially relative terms are intended to encompass differentorientations of the device in use or operation in addition to theorientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in thefigures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” otherelements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elementsor features. Thus, the term “below” may encompass both an orientation ofabove and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptorsused herein interpreted accordingly.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing variousembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of exampleembodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” areintended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearlyindicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms“includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and/or “comprising,” when used inthis specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers,steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude thepresence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps,operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Example embodiments are described herein with reference tocross-sectional illustrations that are schematic illustrations ofidealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of exampleembodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations asa result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances,are to be expected. Thus, example embodiments should not be construed aslimited to the shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to includedeviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing. Theregions illustrated in the figures are schematic in nature and theirshapes are not intended to illustrate the actual shape of a region of adevice and are not intended to limit the scope of example embodiments.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientificterms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by oneof ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. Itwill be further understood that terms, including those defined incommonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaningthat is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant artand will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal senseunless expressly so defined herein.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dispensing body of an e-vaporapparatus according to an example embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1 , adispensing body 104 of an e-vapor apparatus includes a frame portionthat is connected to a body portion 118. The frame portion includes afirst frame 110 and a second frame 112. The side walls 116 (e.g., innerside surfaces) of the first frame 110 and the second frame 112 define athrough-hole 114. The through-hole 114 is configured to receive a podassembly (which will be subsequently discussed in detail).

Generally, an e-vapor apparatus may include the dispensing body 104, apod assembly inserted in the through-hole 114 of the dispensing body104, and a vaporizer disposed in at least one of the pod assembly andthe dispensing body 104. The pod assembly may include a pre-vaporformulation compartment (e.g., liquid compartment), a devicecompartment, and a vapor channel. The vapor channel may extend from thedevice compartment and traverse the pre-vapor formulation compartment.The pre-vapor formulation compartment is configured to hold a pre-vaporformulation (e.g., e-liquid) therein. A pre-vapor formulation is amaterial or combination of materials that may be transformed into avapor. For example, the pre-vapor formulation may be a liquid, solid,and/or gel formulation including, but not limited to, water, beads,solvents, active ingredients, ethanol, plant extracts, natural orartificial flavors, and/or vapor formers such as glycerine and propyleneglycol.

The dispensing body 104 includes a proximal portion and an opposingdistal portion. The mouthpiece 108 is disposed at the proximal portion,while the end piece 120 is disposed at the distal portion. The proximalportion includes a vapor passage 106 and the through-hole 114. The vaporpassage 106 extends from an end surface of the proximal portion to theside wall 116 of the through-hole 114. The vapor passage 106 is in theform of one or more passageways extending through the proximal portionof the dispensing body 104. The through-hole 114 is between the vaporpassage 106 and the distal portion of the dispensing body 104 (e.g.,between the mouthpiece 108 and the body portion 118).

A vaporizer (which will be subsequently discussed in more detail) isdisposed in at least one of the pod assembly and the dispensing body104. The pre-vapor formulation compartment of the pod assembly isconfigured to be in fluidic communication with the vaporizer during anoperation of the e-vapor apparatus such that the pre-vapor formulationfrom the pre-vapor formulation compartment comes into thermal contactwith the vaporizer. The vaporizer is configured to heat the pre-vaporformulation to produce a vapor that passes through the pod assembly viathe vapor channel. The through-hole 114 of the dispensing body 104 isconfigured to receive the pod assembly such that the vapor channel ofthe pod assembly is aligned with the vapor passage 106 of the dispensingbody 104 so as to facilitate a delivery of the vapor through the vaporpassage 106 of the dispensing body 104.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the dispensing body of FIG. 1 . Referringto FIG. 2 , the first frame 110 and the second frame 112 are configuredto unite to form the frame portion of the dispensing body 104. A numberof options are available for uniting the first frame 110 and the secondframe 112. In an example embodiment, the first frame 110 is a femalemember, while the second frame 112 is a male member that is configuredto engage therewith. Alternatively, the first frame 110 may be a malemember, while the second frame 112 may be a female member that isconfigured to engage therewith. The engagement of the first frame 110and the second frame 112 may be via a snap-fit, friction-fit, orslide-lock type arrangement, although example embodiments are notlimited thereto.

The first frame 110 may be regarded as the front frame of the dispensingbody 104, and the second frame 112 may be regarded as the rear frame (orvice versa). Additionally, the proximal ends of the first frame 110 andthe second frame 112, when united, define the vapor passage 106therebetween. The vapor passage 106 may be in the form of a singlepassageway that is in communication with the through-hole 114 defined bythe side wall 116. Alternatively, the vapor passage 106 may be in theform of a plurality of passageways that are in communication with thethrough-hole 114 defined by the side wall 116. In such an example, theplurality of passageways may include a central passageway surrounded byperipheral passageways (or just several evenly spaced passageways). Eachof the plurality of passageways may independently extend from thethrough-hole 114 to the proximal end surface of the frame portion.Alternatively, a common passageway may extend partly from thethrough-hole 114 and then branch into a plurality of passageways thatextend to the proximal end surface of the frame portion.

The mouthpiece 108 is configured to slip onto the proximal end of theframe portion that defines the vapor passage 106. As a result, the outersurface of the proximal end formed by the first frame 110 and the secondframe 112 may correspond to an inner surface of the mouthpiece 108.Alternatively, the proximal end defining the vapor passage 106 may beintegrally formed as part of the mouthpiece 108 (instead of being a partof the frame portion). The mouthpiece 108 may be secured via a snap-fittype or other suitable arrangement. In an example embodiment, themouthpiece 108 is a removable element that is intended to permitvoluntary, recommended, or required replacement by an adult vaper. Forinstance, the mouthpiece 108 may, in addition to its intendedfunctionality, provide a visual or other sensory appeal to the adultvaper. In particular, the mouthpiece 108 may be formed of an ornamentalmaterial (e.g., wood, metal, ceramic) and/or include designs (e.g.,patterns, images, characters). Thus, the mouthpiece 108 may becustomized so as to provide an expression of personality andindividuality by an adult vaper. In other instances, the removablenature of the mouthpiece 108 may facilitate a recommended replacementdue to the amount of usage or a required replacement due to wear overtime or damage (e.g., chipped mouthpiece 108 caused by accidentaldropping of e-vapor apparatus).

The lower ends of the first frame 110 and the second frame 112 oppositethe proximal ends (that define the vapor passage 106) are configured toinsert into the body portion 118. To facilitate a secure fit, the outersurface of the lower ends of the first frame 110 and the second frame112 may correspond to a receiving inner surface of the body portion 118.Additionally, the lower ends of the first frame 110 and the second frame112 may also define a groove therebetween to accommodate one or morewires that connect to one or more electrical contacts provided in theside wall 116 (e.g., lower surface of the side wall 16 opposite thevapor passage 106). A power source (e.g., battery) may also be providedin the groove to supply the requisite current through the wire(s).Alternatively, the power source may be provided in an available spacewithin the body portion 118 between the inserted lower end of the frameportion and the end piece 120.

A first button 122 and a second button 124 may be provided on the bodyportion 118 and connected to the corresponding circuitry and electronicstherein. In an example embodiment, the first button 122 may be a powerbutton, and the second button 124 may be a battery level indicator. Thebattery level indicator may display a representation of the amount ofpower available (e.g., 3 out of 4 bars). In addition, the battery levelindicator may also blink and/or change colors to alert an adult vaper torecharge the e-vapor apparatus. To stop the blinking, an adult vaper maysimply press the second button 124. Thus, the button(s) of the e-vaporapparatus may have a control and/or display function. It should beunderstood that the examples with regard to the first button 122 and thesecond button 124 are not intended to be limiting and can have differentimplementations depending on the desired functionalities. Accordingly,more than two buttons (and/or of different shapes) may be provided inthe same proximity or at a different location on the e-vapor apparatus.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the mouthpiece of FIG. 2 . Referring toFIG. 3 , the mouthpiece 108 may be an open-ended cap-like structure thatis configured to slip onto the proximal end of the frame portiondefining the vapor passage 106. The mouthpiece 108 may have a wider basethat tapers to a narrower top. However, it should be understood thatexample embodiments are not limited thereto. The mouthpiece 108 may alsobe shaped to better accommodate an adult vaper's mouth during theapplication of negative pressure. For instance, one side of themouthpiece 108 may be more linear, while the opposing side may be morecurved.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the first frame of FIG. 2 . Referring toFIG. 4 , the first frame 110 includes a side wall 116 that defines athrough-hole 114. The first frame 110 is configured to unite with thesecond frame 112, which also includes a side wall 116 defining athrough-hole 114. Because the combined through-hole 114 is configured toreceive a pod assembly, the side walls 116 of the first frame 110 andthe second frame 112 may form a relatively smooth and continuous surfaceto facilitate the insertion of the pod assembly.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the second frame of FIG. 2 . Referringto FIG. 5 , the second frame 112 is configured to unite with the firstframe 110 such that the shape defined by the combined side walls 116corresponds to the shape of the side surface of a pod assembly. Inaddition, an attachment structure (e.g., mating member/recess, magneticarrangement) may be provided on at least one of the side walls 116 andthe side surface of the pod assembly.

For example, the attachment structure may include a mating member thatis formed on the side wall 116 (of the first frame 110 and/or secondframe 112) and a corresponding recess that is formed on the side surfaceof the pod assembly. Conversely, the mating member may be formed on theside surface of the pod assembly, while the corresponding recess may beformed on the side wall 116 (of the first frame 110 and/or second frame112). In a non-limiting embodiment, the mating member may be a roundedstructure to facilitate the engagement/disengagement of the attachmentstructure, while the recess may be a concave indentation thatcorresponds to the curvature of the rounded structure. The mating membermay also be spring-loaded so as to retract (via spring compression) whenthe pod assembly is being inserted into the through-hole 114 andprotract (via spring decompression) when mating member becomes alignedwith the corresponding recess. The engagement of the mating member withthe corresponding recess may result in an audible sound (e.g., click),which notifies the adult vaper that the pod assembly is secured andproperly positioned within the through-hole 114 of the dispensing body104.

In another example, the attachment structure may include a magneticarrangement. For instance, a first magnet may be arranged in the sidewall 116 (of the first frame 110 and/or second frame 112), and a secondmagnet may be arranged in the side surface of the pod assembly. Thefirst and/or second magnets may be exposed or hidden from view behind alayer of material. The first and second magnets are oriented so as to beattracted to each other, and a plurality of pairs of the first andsecond magnets may be provided to ensure that the pod assembly will besecure and properly aligned within the through-hole 114 of thedispensing body 104. As a result, when the pod assembly is inserted inthe through-hole 114, the pair(s) of magnets (e.g., first and secondmagnets) will be attracted to each other and, thus, hold the podassembly within the through-hole 114 while properly aligning the channeloutlet of the pod assembly with the vapor passage 106 of the dispensingbody 104.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the body portion of FIG. 2 . Referringto FIG. 6 , the body portion 118 may be a tube-like structure thatconstitutes a substantial segment of the dispensing body 104. Thecross-section of the body portion 118 may be oval-shaped, although othershapes are possible depending on the structure of the frame portion. Anadult vaper may hold the e-vapor apparatus by the body portion 118.Accordingly, the body portion 118 may be formed of (or covered with) amaterial that provides enhanced gripping and/or texture appeal to thefingers

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the end piece of FIG. 2 . Referring toFIG. 7 , the end piece 120 is configured to be inserted in the distalend of the body portion 118. The shape of the end piece 120 maycorrespond to the shape of the distal end of the body portion 118 so asto provide a relatively smooth and continuous transition between the twosurfaces.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another dispensing body of an e-vaporapparatus according to an example embodiment. Referring to FIG. 8 , thedispensing body 204 includes a side wall 216 defining a through-hole 214that is configured to receive a pod assembly. A substantial portion ofthe framework of the dispensing body 204 is provided by the first frame210, the frame trim 211, and the second frame 212 (e.g., FIG. 9 ). Avapor passage 206 and a first mouthpiece 208 are provided at a proximalportion of the dispensing body 204.

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the dispensing body of FIG. 8 . Referringto FIG. 9 , the frame trim 211 is sandwiched between the first frame 210and the second frame 212. However, it should be understood that it ispossible to modify and structure the first frame 210 and the secondframe 212 such that the frame trim 211 is not needed. The vapor passage206 may be defined by both the proximal ends of the first frame 210 andthe second frame 212 as well as the second mouthpiece 209. As a result,the vapor passage 206 extends from the side wall 216 to the outlet endof the second mouthpiece 209. The first mouthpiece 208 is configured toslip onto the second mouthpiece 209. In an example embodiment, the firstmouthpiece 208 may be structured to be removable, while the secondmouthpiece 209 may be structured to be permanent. Alternatively, thefirst mouthpiece 208 may be integrated with the second mouthpiece 209 toform a single structure that is removable.

A first button 222, a second button 224, and a third button 226 may beprovided on the second frame 212 of the dispensing body 204. In anexample embodiment, the first button 222 may be a display (e.g., batterylevel indicator), the second button 224 may control an amount ofpre-vapor formulation available to the heater, and the third button 226may be the power button. However, it should be understood that exampleembodiments are not limited thereto. Notably, the buttons can havedifferent implementations depending on the desired functionalities.Accordingly, a different number of buttons (and/or of different shapes)may be provided in the same proximity or at a different location on thee-vapor apparatus. Furthermore, the features and considerations inconnection with the dispensing body 104 that are also applicable to thedispensing body 204 may be as discussed supra in connection with thedispensing body 104.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the first mouthpiece of FIG. 9 .Referring to FIG. 10 , the first mouthpiece 208 is configured to fitover the second mouthpiece 209. Thus, the inner surface of the firstmouthpiece 208 may correspond to an outer surface of the secondmouthpiece 209.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the second mouthpiece of FIG. 9 .Referring to FIG. 11 , the second mouthpiece 209 defines a vapor passage206 therein. The second mouthpiece 209 may resemble the combinedproximal ends of the first frame 110 and the second frame 112 thatdefine the vapor passage 106 of the dispensing body 104.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the first frame of FIG. 9 . Referringto FIG. 12 , the first frame 210 includes a side wall 216 that defines athrough-hole 214. The top end of the first frame 210 may include aconnection structure that facilitates the connection of at least thesecond mouthpiece 209 thereto.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the frame trim of FIG. 9 . Referring toFIG. 13 , the frame trim 211 may be in the form of a curved strip thatis supported by a central plate. When arranged between the first frame210 and the second frame 212, the frame trim 211 forms a side surface ofthe dispensing body 204, although example embodiments are not limitedthereto.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the second frame of FIG. 9 . Referringto FIG. 14 , the second frame 212 includes a side wall 216 that definesa through-hole 214. The top end of the second frame 212 may include aconnection structure that facilitates the connection of at least thesecond mouthpiece 209 thereto. In addition, the surface of the secondframe 212 may be provided with a pattern or textured appearance. Suchpatterning and texturing may be aesthetic (e.g., visually appealing)and/or functional (e.g., enhanced grip) in nature. Although not shown,the surface of the first frame 210 may be similarly provided.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a pod assembly of an e-vapor apparatusaccording to an example embodiment. Referring to FIG. 15 , the podassembly 302 includes a pod trim 310 that is arranged between a firstcap 304 and a second cap 314. The first cap 304 may be regarded as afront cap, and the second cap 314 may be regarded as a rear cap (or viceversa). The first cap 304 and the second cap 314 may be formed of atransparent material to permit a viewing of the contents (e.g.,pre-vapor formulation) in the pod assembly 302. The pod trim 310 definesa channel outlet 312 for the release of vapor generated within the podassembly 302.

The pod assembly 302 is a self-contained article that can be sealed witha protective film that wraps around the pod trim 310. Additionally,because of the closed system nature of the pod assembly 302, the risk oftampering and contamination can be reduced. Also, the chance of unwantedphysical exposure to the pre-vapor formulation within the pod assembly302 (e.g., via a leak) can be reduced. Furthermore, the pod assembly 302can be structured so as to prevent refilling.

FIG. 16 is a top view of the pod assembly of FIG. 15 . Referring to FIG.16 , the second cap 314 is wider than the first cap 304. As a result,the pod trim 310 may slant outwards from the first cap 304 to the secondcap 314. However, it should be understood that other configurations arepossible depending on the design of the pod assembly 302.

FIG. 17 is a side view of the pod assembly of FIG. 15 . Referring toFIG. 17 , the second cap 314 is longer than the first cap 304. As aresult, the pod trim 310 may slant outwards from the first cap 304 tothe second cap 314. As a result, the pod assembly 302 may be inserted ina dispensing body such that the side corresponding to the first cap 304is received in the through-hole first. In an example embodiment, the podassembly 302 may be inserted in the through-hole 114 of the dispensingbody 104 and/or the through-hole 214 of the dispensing body 204.

FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the pod assembly of FIG. 15 . Referringto FIG. 18 , the internal space of the pod assembly 302 may be dividedinto a plurality of compartments by virtue of the elements therein. Forinstance, the tapered outlet of the vapor channel 308 may be alignedwith the channel outlet 312, and the space bounded by the first cap 304,the vapor channel 308, the pod trim 310, and the second cap 314 may beregarded as the pre-vapor formulation compartment. Additionally, thebounded space under the vapor channel 308 may be regarded as the devicecompartment. For instance, the device compartment may include thevaporizer 306. One benefit of including the vaporizer 306 in the podassembly 302 is that the vaporizer 306 will only be used for the amountof pre-vapor formulation contained within the pre-vapor formulationcompartment and, thus, will not be overused.

FIG. 19 a perspective view of several pod assemblies according to anexample embodiment. Referring to FIG. 19 , each of the pod assemblies402 includes a pod trim 410 arranged between a first cap 404 and asecond cap 414. The vapor channel 408 is aligned with the channel outlet412 and arranged above the vaporizer 406. The pod assembly 402 is sealedto hold a pre-vapor formulation 418 therein and to preclude tamperingtherewith. The pre-vapor formulation compartment of the pod assembly 402is configured to hold the pre-vapor formulation 418, and the devicecompartment includes the vaporizer 406.

In further detail, the pod assembly 402 for an e-vapor apparatus mayinclude a pre-vapor formulation compartment configured to hold apre-vapor formulation 418 therein. A device compartment is configured tobe in fluidic communication with the pre-vapor formulation compartment.The device compartment includes a vaporizer 406. A vapor channel 408extends from the device compartment and traverses the pre-vaporformulation compartment.

The pod assembly 402 is configured for insertion into a dispensing body.As a result, the dimensions of the pod assembly 402 may correspond tothe dimensions of the through-hole (e.g., 114) of the dispensing body(e.g., 104). The vapor channel 408 may be between the mouthpiece (e.g.,108) and the device compartment when the pod assembly 402 is insertedinto the through-hole of the dispensing body.

An attachment structure (e.g., male/female member arrangement, magneticarrangement) may be provided on at least one of the side wall (e.g.,116) of the through-hole (e.g., 114) and a side surface of the podassembly 402. The attachment structure may be configured to engage andhold the pod assembly 402 upon insertion into the through-hole of thedispensing body. In addition, the channel outlet 412 may be utilized tosecure the pod assembly 402 within the through-hole of the dispensingbody. For instance, the dispensing body may be provided with aretractable vapor connector that is configured to insert into thechannel outlet 412 so as to secure the pod assembly 402 while alsosupplementing the vapor path from the channel outlet 412 to the vaporpassage (e.g., 106) of the dispensing body (e.g., 104). The vaporconnector may also be a rounded structure and/or spring-loaded tofacilitate its retraction (e.g., via spring compression) and protraction(e.g., via spring decompression).

In an example embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation compartment of thepod assembly 402 may surround the vapor channel 408. For instance, thevapor channel 408 may pass through a center of the pre-vapor formulationcompartment, although example embodiments are not limited thereto.

Alternatively, instead of the vapor channel 408 shown in FIG. 19 , avapor channel may be in a form of a pathway that is arranged along atleast one sidewall of the pre-vapor formulation compartment. Forexample, a vapor channel may be provided in a form of a pathway thatspans between the first cap 404 and the second cap 414 while extendingalong one or both sides of an inner surface of the pod trim 410. As aresult, the pathway may have a thin, rectangular cross-section, althoughexample embodiments are not limited thereto. When the pathway isarranged along two sidewalls of the pre-vapor formulation compartment(e.g., both inner sidewalls of the pod trim 410), the pathway along eachsidewall may be configured to converge at a position (e.g., channeloutlet 412) that is aligned with the vapor passage (e.g., 106) of thedispensing body (e.g., 104) when the pod assembly 402 is received in thethrough-hole 114.

In another instance, the vapor channel may be in a form of a conduitthat is arranged in at least one corner of the pre-vapor formulationcompartment. Such a corner may be at the interface of the first cap 404and/or the second cap 414 with the inner surface of the pod trim 410. Asa result, the conduit may have a triangular cross-section, althoughexample embodiments are not limited thereto. When the conduit isarranged in at least two corners (e.g., front corners, rear corners,diagonal corners, side corners) of the pre-vapor formulationcompartment, the conduit in each corner may be configured to converge ata position (e.g., channel outlet 412) that is aligned with the vaporpassage (e.g., 106) of the dispensing body (e.g., 104) when the podassembly 402 is received in the through-hole 114.

The pre-vapor formulation compartment and the device compartment may beat opposite ends of the pod assembly 402. The device compartment mayinclude a memory device. The memory device may be coded with anelectronic identity to permit at least one of an authentication of thepod assembly 402 and a pairing of operating parameters specific to atype of the pod assembly 402 when the pod assembly 402 is inserted intothe through-hole of the dispensing body (e.g., smart calibration). Theelectronic identity may help prevent counterfeiting. The operatingparameters may help optimize a vaping experience without placing aburden on the adult vaper to determine the proper settings. In anexample embodiment, the level of pre-vapor formulation in the podassembly 402 may be tracked. Additionally, the activation of the podassembly 402 may be restricted once its intended usage life has beenexceeded. Thus, the pod assembly 402 (and 302) may be regarded as asmart pod.

A side surface of the pod assembly 402 includes at least one electricalcontact 416 and/or data connection 417 (e.g., two or three electricalcontacts and/or data connections). The dispensing body may be configuredto perform at least one of supply power to and communicate with the podassembly 402 via the at least one electrical contact 416. The at leastone electrical contact 416 may be provided at an end of the pod assembly402 corresponding to the device compartment. Because of its smartcapability, the pod assembly 402 may communicate with dispensing bodyand/or another electronic device (e.g., smart phone). As a result, usagepatterns and other information (e.g., flavor intensity, throat feel,puff count) may be generated, stored, transferred, and/or displayed. Thesmart capability, connecting features, and other related aspects of thepod assembly, dispensing body, and overall e-vapor apparatus areadditionally discussed in U.S. Application No. 62/151,160 (Atty. Dkt.No. 24000-000200-US-PS1 (ALCS2853)), U.S. Application No. 62/151,179(Atty. Dkt. No. 24000-000201-US-PS1 (ALCS2854)), and U.S. ApplicationNo. 62/151,248 (Atty. Dkt. No. 24000-000202-US-PS1 (ALCS2855)), theentire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIG. 20 is a view of an e-vapor apparatus with a pod assembly insertedin a dispensing body according to an example embodiment. Referring toFIG. 20 , an e-vapor apparatus 500 includes a pod assembly 502 (e.g.,smart pod) that is inserted within a dispensing body 504. The podassembly 502 may be as previously described in connection with the podassembly 302 and the pod assembly 402. As a result, the pod assembly 502may be a hassle-free and leak-free part that can be replaced withrelative ease when the pre-vapor formulation therein runs low/out orwhen another flavor is desired.

FIG. 21 illustrates a device system of a dispensing body according to anexample embodiment. A device system 2100 may be the system within thedispensing body 104 and the dispensing body 204.

The device system 2100 includes a controller 2105, a power supply 2110,actuator controls 2115, a pod electrical/data interface 2120, devicesensors 2125, input/output (I/O) interfaces 2130, vaper indicators 2135,at least one antenna 2140 and a storage medium 2145. The device system2100 is not limited to the features shown in FIG. 21 . For example, thedevice system 2100 may include additional elements. However, for thesake of brevity, the additional elements are not described.

The controller 2105 may be hardware, firmware, hardware executingsoftware or any combination thereof. When the controller 2105 ishardware, such existing hardware may include one or more CentralProcessing Units (CPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs),application-specific-integrated-circuits (ASICs), field programmablegate arrays (FPGAs) computers or the like configured as special purposemachines to perform the functions of the processor. As stated above,CPUs, DSPs, ASICs and FPGAs may generally be referred to as processingdevices.

In the event where the controller 2105 is a processor executingsoftware, the controller 2105 is configured as a special purpose machineto execute the software, stored in the storage medium 2145, to performthe functions of the at least one of the controller 2105.

As disclosed herein, the term “storage medium”, “computer readablestorage medium” or “non-transitory computer readable storage medium” mayrepresent one or more devices for storing data, including read onlymemory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory,magnetic disk storage mediums, optical storage mediums, flash memorydevices and/or other tangible machine readable mediums for storinginformation. The term “computer-readable medium” may include, but is notlimited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices,and various other mediums capable of storing, containing or carryinginstruction(s) and/or data.

Referring to FIG. 21 , the controller 2105 communicates with the powersupply 2110, the actuator control 2115, the pod electrical/datainterface 2120, the device sensors 2125, the input/output (I/O)interfaces 2130, the vaper indicators 2135, the at least one antenna2140.

The controller 2105 communicates with the CC-NVM in the pod through thepod electrical/data interface 2120. More specifically, the controller2105 may utilize encryption to authenticate the pod. As will bedescribed, the controller 2105 communicates with the CC-NVM package toauthenticate the pod. More specifically, the non-volatile memory isencoded during manufacture with product and other information forauthentication.

The memory device may be coded with an electronic identity to permit atleast one of an authentication of the pod and a pairing of operatingparameters specific to a type of the pod when the pod assembly 402 isinserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body. In addition toauthenticating based on an electronic identity of the pod, thecontroller 2105 may authorize use of the pod based on an expiration dateof the stored pre-vapor formulation and/or heater encoded into thenon-volatile memory of the CC-NVM. If the controller determines that theexpiration date encoded into the non-volatile memory has passed, thecontroller may not authorize use of the pod and disable the e-vapingdevice.

The controller 2105 (or storage medium 2145) stores key material andproprietary algorithm software for the encryption. For example,encryption algorithms rely on the use of random numbers. The security ofthese algorithms depends on how truly random these numbers are. Thesenumbers are usually pre-generated and coded into the processor or memorydevices. Example embodiments may increase the randomness of the numbersused for the encryption by using the puffing parameters e.g. puffdurations, intervals between puffs, or combinations of them, to generatenumbers that are more random and more varying from individual toindividual than pre-generated random numbers. All communications betweenthe controller 2105 and the pod may be encrypted.

Moreover, the pod can be used to as a general pay-load carrier for otherinformation such as software patches for the e-vaping device. Sinceencryption is used in all the communications between the pod and thecontroller 2105, such information is more secure and the e-vaping deviceis less prone to being installed with malwares or viruses. Use of theCC-NVM as an information carrier such as data and software updatesallows the e-vaping device to be updated with software without it beingconnected to the Internet and for the adult vaper to go through adownloading process as with most other consumer electronics devicesrequiring periodic software updates.

The controller 2105 may also include a cryptographic accelerator toallow resources of the controller 2105 to perform functions other thanthe encoding and decoding involved with the authentication. Thecontroller 2105 may also include other security features such aspreventing unauthorized use of communication channels and preventingunauthorized access to data if a pod or vaper is not authenticated.

In addition to a cryptographic accelerator, the controller 2105 mayinclude other hardware accelerators. For example, the controller 2105may include a floating point unit (FPU), a separate DSP core, digitalfilters and Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) modules.

The controller 2105 operates a real time operating system (RTOS),controls the device system 2100 and may be updated through communicatingwith the CC-NVM or when the device system 2100 is connected with otherdevices (e.g., a smart phone) through the I/O interfaces 2130 and/or theantenna 2140. The I/O interfaces 2130 and the antenna 2140 allow thedevice system 2100 to connect to various external devices such as smartphones, tablets, and PCs. For example, the I/O interfaces 2130 mayinclude a micro-USB connector. The micro-USB connector may be used bythe device system 2100 to charge the power source 2110 b.

The controller 2105 may include on-board RAM and flash memory to storeand execute code including analytics, diagnostics and software upgrades.As an alternative, the storage medium 2145 may store the code.Additionally, in another example embodiment, the storage medium 2145 maybe on-board the controller 2105.

The controller 2105 may further include on-board clock, reset and powermanagement modules to reduce an area covered by a PCB in the dispensingbody.

The device sensors 2125 may include a number of sensor transducers thatprovide measurement information to the controller 2105. The devicesensors 2125 may include a power supply temperature sensor, an externalpod temperature sensor, a current sensor for the heater, power supplycurrent sensor, air flow sensor and an accelerometer to monitor movementand orientation. The power supply temperature sensor and external podtemperature sensor may be a thermistor or thermocouple and the currentsensor for the heater and power supply current sensor may be a resistivebased sensor or another type of sensor configured to measure current.The air flow sensor may be a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) flowsensor or another type of sensor configured to measure air flow.

The data generated from the number of sensor transducers may be sampledat a sample rate appropriate to the parameter being measured using adiscrete, multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC).

The controller 2105 may adapt heater profiles for a pre-vaporformulation and other profiles based on the measurement informationreceived from the controller 2105. For the sake of convenience, theseare generally referred to as vaping or vapor profiles.

The heater profile identifies the power profile to be supplied to theheater during the few seconds when a negative pressure is applied to thee-vapor device. An example of a heater profile may be the delivery ofmaximum power to the heater when a negative pressure is initiallyapplied, but then after a second or so immediately reduce the power tohalf-way or a quarter-way or so.

The modulation of electrical power is usually implemented using pulsewave modulation instead of flipping an on/off switch such that the poweris either full on or off.

In addition, a heater profile can also be modified by the extent towhich the adult vaper applies negative pressure to the e-vaping device.The use of the MEMS flow sensor allows puff strength to be measured andused as feedback to the controller 2105 to adjust the power delivered tothe heater of the pod, which may be referred to as heating or energydelivery.

When the controller 2105 recognizes the pod currently installed (e.g.,via SKU), the controller 2105 matches an associated heating profile thatis designed for that particular pod. The controller 2105 and the storagemedium 2145 will store data and algorithms that allow the generation ofheating profiles for all SKUs. The adult vapers may also adjust heatingprofiles to suit their preferences.

As shown in FIG. 21 , the controller 2105 sends data to and receivesdata from the power supply 2110. The power supply 2110 includes a powersource 2110 b and a power controller 2110 a to manage the power outputby the power source 2110 b.

The power source 2110 b may be a Lithium-ion battery or one of itsvariants, for example a Lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, thepower source 2110 b may be a Nickel-metal hydride battery, a Nickelcadmium battery, a Lithium-manganese battery, a Lithium-cobalt batteryor a fuel cell. Alternatively, the power source 2110 b may berechargeable and include circuitry allowing the battery to be chargeableby an external charging device. In that case, the circuitry, whencharged, provides power for a desired (or alternatively apre-determined) number of puffs, after which the circuitry must bere-connected to an external charging device.

The power controller 2110 a provides commands to the power source 2110 bbased on instructions from the controller 2105. For example, the powersupply 2110 may receive a command from the controller 2105 to providepower to the pod (through the electrical/data interface 2120) when thepod is authenticated and the adult vaper activates the device system2100 (e.g., by activating a switch such as a toggle button, capacitivesensor, IR sensor). When the pod is not authenticated, the controller2105 may either send no command to the power supply 2110 or send aninstruction to the power supply 2110 to not provide power. In anotherexample embodiment, the controller 2105 may disable all operations ofthe device system 2100 if the pod is not authenticated.

In addition to supplying power to the pod, the power supply 2110 alsosupplies power to the controller 2105. Moreover, the power controller2110 a may provide feedback to the controller 2105 indicatingperformance of the power source 2110 b.

The controller 2105 sends data to and receives data from the at leastone antenna 2140. The at least one antenna 2140 may include a Near FieldCommunication (NFC) modem and a Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) modem and/orother modems for other wireless technologies (e.g., Wi-Fi). In anexample embodiment, the communications stacks are in the modems, but themodems are controlled by the controller 2105. The Bluetooth LE modem isused for data and control communications with an application on anexternal device (e.g., smart phone). The NFC modem may be used forpairing of the e-vaping device to the application and retrieval ofdiagnostic information. Moreover, the NFC modem may be used to providelocation information (for an adult vaper to find the e-vaping device) orauthentication during a purchase.

As described above, the device system 2100 may generate and adjustvarious profiles for vaping. The controller 2105 uses the power supply2110 and the actuator controls 2115 to regulate the profile for theadult vaper.

The actuator controls 2115 include passive and active actuators toregulate a desired vapor profile. For example, the dispensing body mayinclude an inlet channel within a mouthpiece. The actuator controls 2115may control the inlet channel based on commands from the controller 2105associated with the desired vapor profile.

Moreover, the actuator controls 2115 are used to energize the heater inconjunction with the power supply 2110. More specifically, the actuatorcontrols 2115 are configured to generate a drive waveform associatedwith the desired vaping profile. As described above, each possibleprofile is associated with a drive waveform. Upon receiving a commandfrom the controller 2105 indicating the desired vaping profile, theactuator controls 2115 may produce the associated modulating waveformfor the power supply 2110.

The controller 2105 supplies information to the vaper indicators 2135 toindicate statuses and occurring operations to the adult vaper. The vaperindicators 2135 include a power indicator (e.g., LED) that may beactivated when the controller 2105 senses a button press by the adultvaper. The vaper indicators 2135 may also include a vibrator, speaker,an indicator for current state of a vaper-controlled vaping parameter(e.g., vapor volume) and other feedback mechanisms.

Furthermore, the device system 2100 may include a number of on-productcontrols 2150 that provide commands from an adult vaper to thecontroller 2105. The on-product controls 2150 include an on-off buttonwhich may be a toggle button, capacitive sensor or IR sensor, forexample. The on-product controls 2150 may further include a vapingcontrol button (if the adult vaper desires to override the buttonlessvaping feature to energize the heater), a hard reset button, a touchbased slider control (for controlling setting of a vaping parameter suchas puff volume), a vaping control button to activate the slider controland a mechanical adjustment for an air inlet.

Once a pod is authenticated, the controller 2105 operates the powersupply 2110, the actuator controls 2115, vaper indicators 2135 andantenna 2140 in accordance with an adult vaper using the e-vaping deviceand the information stored by the CC-NVM on the pod. Moreover, thecontroller 2105 may include logging functions and be able to implementalgorithms to calibrate the e-vaping device. The logging functions areexecuted by the controller 2105 to record usage data as well anyunexpected events or faults. The recorded usage data may be used fordiagnostics and analytics. The controller 2105 may calibrate thee-vaping device using buttonless vaping, a vaper configuration and thestored information on the CC-NVM including puff sensing, pre-vaporformulation level, and pre-vapor formulation composition. For example,the controller 2105 may command the power supply 2110 to supply power tothe heater in the pod based on a vaping profile associated with thepre-vapor formulation composition in the pod. Alternatively, a vapingprofile may be encoded in the CC-NVM and utilized by the controller2105.

FIG. 22 illustrates a pod system diagram of a dispensing body accordingto an example embodiment. A pod system 2200 may be within the podassembly 502, the pod assembly 302 and the pod assembly 402.

As shown in FIG. 22 , the pod system 2200 includes a CC-NVM 2205, a bodyelectrical/data interface 2210, a heater 2215 and pod sensors 2220. Thepod system 2200 communicates with the device system 2100 through thebody electrical/data interface 2210 and the pod electrical/datainterface 2120. The body electrical/data interface 2210 may correspondto the electrical contacts 416 and data connection 417 connected withinthe pod assembly 402, shown in FIG. 19 , for example. Thus, the CC-NVM2205 is coupled to the data connection 417 and the electrical contacts416.

The CC-NVM 2205 includes a cryptographic coprocessor 2205 a and anon-volatile memory 2205 b. The controller 2105 may access theinformation stored on the non-volatile memory 2205 b for the purposes ofauthentication and operating the pod by communicating with thecryptographic coprocessor 2205 a.

The non-volatile memory 2205 b may be coded with an electronic identityto permit at least one of an authentication of the pod and a pairing ofoperating parameters specific to a type of the pod when the pod assemblyis inserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body. In addition toauthenticating based on an electronic identity of the pod, thecontroller 2105 may authorize use of the pod based on an expiration dateof the stored pre-vapor formulation and/or heater encoded into thenon-volatile memory 2205 b of the CC-NVM. If the controller determinesthat the expiration date encoded into the non-volatile memorynon-volatile memory 2205 b has passed, the controller may not authorizeuse of the pod and disable the e-vaping device.

Moreover, the non-volatile memory 2205 b may store information such as astock keeping unit (SKU) of the pre-vapor formulation in the pre-vaporformulation compartment (including pre-vapor formulation composition),software patches for the device system 2100, product usage informationsuch as puff count, puff duration, and pre-vapor formulation level. Thenon-volatile memory 2205 b may store operating parameters specific tothe type of the pod and the pre-vapor formulation composition. Forexample, the non-volatile memory 2205 b may store the electrical andmechanical design of the pod for use by the controller 2105 to determinecommands corresponding to a desired vaping profile.

The pre-vapor formulation level in the pod may be determined in one oftwo ways, for example. In one example embodiment, one of the pod sensors2220 directly measures the pre-vapor formulation level in the pod.

In another example embodiment, the non-volatile memory 2205 b stores thenumber of puffs taken from the pod and the controller 2105 uses thenumber of puffs taken as a proxy to the amount of pre-vapor formulationthat is vaporized.

The controller 2105 and/or the storage medium 2145 may store pre-vaporformulation calibration data that identifies an operating point for thepre-vapor formulation composition. The pre-vapor formulation calibrationdata include data describing how flow rate changes with a remainingpre-vapor formulation level or how volatility changes with an age of thepre-vapor formulation and may be used for calibration by the controller2105. The pre-vapor formulation calibration data may be stored by thecontroller 2105 and/or the storage medium 2145 in a table format. Thepre-vapor formulation calibration data allows the controller 2105 toequate the number of puffs taken to the amount of pre-vapor formulationthat is vaporized.

The controller 2105 writes the pre-vapor formulation level and number ofpuffs taken back to the non-volatile memory 2205 b in the pod so if thepod is removed from the dispensing body and later on re-installed, anaccurate pre-vapor formulation level of the pod will still be known bythe controller 2105.

The operating parameters (e.g., power supply, power duration, airchannel control) are referred to as a vaping profile. Moreover, thenon-volatile memory 2205 b may record information communicated by thecontroller 2105. The non-volatile memory 2205 b may retain the recordedinformation even when the dispensing body becomes disconnected from thepod.

In an example embodiment, the non-volatile memory 2205 b may be aprogrammable read only memory.

The heater 2215 is actuated by the controller 2105 and transfers heat tothe pre-vapor formulation in accordance with the commanded profile(volume, temperature (based on power profile) and flavor) from thecontroller 2105.

The heater 2215 may be a wire coil surrounding a wick, a mesh, a surfaceor made out of a ceramic material for example. Examples of suitableelectrically resistive materials include titanium, zirconium, tantalumand metals from the platinum group. Examples of suitable metal alloysinclude stainless steel, nickel-, cobalt-, chromium-, aluminum-titanium- zirconium-, hafnium-, niobium-, molybdenum-, tantalum-,tungsten-, tin-, gallium-, manganese- and iron-containing alloys, andsuper-alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel. Forexample, the heater may be formed of nickel aluminides, a material witha layer of alumina on the surface, iron aluminides and other compositematerials, the electrically resistive material may optionally beembedded in, encapsulated or coated with an insulating material orvice-versa, depending on the kinetics of energy transfer and theexternal physicochemical properties required. In one embodiment, theheater 14 comprises at least one material selected from the groupconsisting of stainless steel, copper, copper alloys, nickel-chromiumalloys, superalloys and combinations thereof. In an embodiment, theheater 2215 is formed of nickel-chromium alloys or iron-chromium alloys.In one embodiment, the heater 2215 can be a ceramic heater having anelectrically resistive layer on an outside surface thereof.

In another embodiment, the heater 2215 may be constructed of aniron-aluminide (e.g., FeAl or Fe₃Al), such as those described incommonly owned U.S. Pat. No. 5,595,706 to Sikka, et al., filed Dec. 29,1994, or nickel aluminides (e.g., Ni₃Al), the entire contents of whichare hereby incorporate by reference.

The heater 2215 may determine an amount of pre-vapor formulation to heatbased on feedback from the pod sensors or the controller 2105. The flowof pre-vapor formulation may be regulated by a micro-capillary orwicking action. Moreover, the controller 2105 may send commands to theheater 2215 to adjust an air inlet to the heater 2215.

The pod sensor 2220 may include a heater temperature sensor, pre-vaporformulation flow rate monitor and air flow monitor. The heatertemperature sensor may be a thermistor or thermocouple and the flow ratesensing may be performed by the pod system 2200 using electrostaticinterference or an in-liquid rotator. The air flow sensor may be amicroelectromechanical system (MEMS) flow sensor or another type ofsensor configured to measure air flow.

The data generated from the pod sensors 2220 may be sampled at a samplerate appropriate to the parameter being measured using a discrete,multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC).

FIG. 23 is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vaporapparatus according to an example embodiment. Referring to FIG. 23 , apin piercing mechanism is employed to actuate the pod assembly 602 priorto use. In an example embodiment, the pod assembly 602 includes an upperpod case 604, a seal 606, a foil 608, a blade 610, a pin 612, an O-ring614, a cap 616, a vaporizer 618, a lower pod case 620, and an electricalcontact unit 622.

The pod assembly 602 is configured to store a pre-vapor formulationwithin an internal, hermetically-sealed compartment so as to isolate thepre-vapor formulation from other internal elements until the podassembly 602 is actuated for vaping. Because the pre-vapor formulationis isolated from the environment as well as the internal elements of thepod assembly 602 that may potentially react with the pre-vaporformulation, the possibility of adverse effects to the shelf-life and/orsensorial characteristics (e.g., flavor) of the pre-vapor formulationmay be reduced or prevented. The internal, hermetically-sealedcompartment within the pod assembly 602 may be a reservoir defined bythe upper pod case 604, the seal 606, and the foil 608.

The blade 610 is configured to be mounted or attached to an upperportion of the pin 612. The mounting or attachment may be achieved via asnap-fit connection, a friction fit connection, an adhesive, or othersuitable coupling technique. The top of the blade 610 may have one ormore curved or concave edges that taper upward to a pointed tip. Asshown in FIG. 23 , two blades 610 and two corresponding pins 612 may beprovided on opposite sides of the vaporizer 618, although exampleembodiments are not limited thereto. Each of the blades 610 may have twopointed tips with a concave edge therebetween and a curved edge adjacentto each pointed tip. The radii of curvature of the concave edge and thecurved edges may be the same, while their arc lengths may differ. Theblade 610 may be formed of a sheet metal (e.g., stainless steel) that iscut or otherwise shaped to have the desired profile and bent to itsfinal form. In another instance, the blade 610 may be formed of plasticif the foil 608 is relatively thin.

The lower portion of the pin 612 is configured to extend through abottom section of the lower pod case 620. The distal end of the lowerportion of the pin 612 is also provided with the O-ring 614 and coveredwith the cap 616. The O-ring 614 may be formed of silicone. Theelectrical contact unit 622 is configured to provide an electricalconnection between the pod assembly 602 and a power supply (e.g.,battery) so as to power the vaporizer 618 when the pod assembly 602 isinserted in a dispensing body for vaping.

FIG. 24A is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 23 whenassembled and before actuation. FIG. 24B is a tilted cross-sectionalview of the pod assembly of FIG. 23 when assembled and before actuation.Referring to FIG. 24A and FIG. 24B, the upper pod case 604 is configuredto engage with the lower pod case 620. The engagement may be via asnap-fit connection, a friction fit connection, an adhesive, or othersuitable coupling technique. The upper portion of the vaporizer 618 isconfigured to extend into a vapor channel within the upper pod case 604,while the lower portion of the vaporizer 618 is configured to engagewith the electrical contact unit 622. The sector of the pod assembly 602above the foil 608 for containing the pre-vapor formulation may beregarded as the pre-vapor formulation compartment, while the sector ofthe pod assembly 602 below the foil 608 may be regarded as the devicecompartment. The device compartment may be further regarded as beingdivided into at least a heating section and an electronics section. Inan example embodiment, the vaporizer 618 is regarded as being part ofthe heating section.

Before the actuation of the pod assembly 602, the blade 610 and the pin612 will be below the foil 608 and, thus, below the reservoir containingthe pre-vapor formulation. As a result, the distal end of the lowerportion of the pin 612 (which is covered by the cap 616) will protrudefrom the bottom section of the lower pod case 620. The foil 608 isdesigned to be strong enough to remain intact during the normal movementand/or handling of the pod assembly 602 so as to avoid beingprematurely/inadvertently breached. For instance, the foil 608 may be acoated foil (e.g., aluminum-backed Tritan).

FIG. 25A is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 23 whenassembled and after actuation. FIG. 25B is a tilted cross-sectional viewof the pod assembly of FIG. 23 when assembled and after actuation. FIG.25C is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assembly ofFIG. 23 when assembled and after actuation. Referring to FIG. 25A, FIG.25B, and FIG. 25C, the pin 612 is pushed inward to actuate the podassembly 602. The pin 612 may be pushed inward manually by an adultvaper prior to inserting the actuated pod assembly 602 into thedispensing body. In such an instance, the pod assembly 602 may beconfigured to produce an audible sound (e.g., click) to indicate to theadult vaper that the pin 612 has been pushed sufficiently inward foractuation. The pod assembly 602 may also be configured such that the pin612 is locked in place so as to not slide outward after actuation.Alternatively, the pin 612 may be pushed inward concurrently with theinsertion of the pod assembly 602 by engaging features on the dispensingbody. In another non-limiting embodiment, the unactuated pod assembly602 may be first inserted into the dispensing body and then the pin 612may be subsequently pushed inward mechanically by the dispensing body toactuate the pod assembly 602. The action to push the pin 612 may beperformed automatically by the dispensing body or initiated by a buttonpressed by an adult vaper. Furthermore, the pod assembly 602 may beconfigured such that the pin 612 does not protrude from the bottomsection of the lower pod case 620 when in the unactuated state.

During the actuation of the pod assembly 602, the inward movement of thepin 612 will cause the blade 610 to pierce and cut the foil 608 so as torelease the pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir. In an exampleembodiment, the pin 612 includes an inner lip that folds the foil 608back after (or concurrently with) the piercing and cutting by the blade610. In such an instance, the foil 608 may be pushed against the seal606 by the inner lip of the pin 612. The pin 612 may also include agroove or channel extending from its upper portion (which is adjacent tothe blade 610) and extending downward along a part of its length. Thepod assembly 602 may be configured such that the lower terminus of thegroove or channel will be aligned with an opening in the vaporizer 618when the pin 612 is pushed inward during actuation. The groove orchannel in the pin 612 may facilitate the flow of the pre-vaporformulation into the opening of the vaporizer 618. The vaporizer 618includes a heater that will be in thermal and/or fluidic communicationwith the pre-vapor formulation after the pod assembly 602 is actuated.The heater within the vaporizer 618 is not particularly limited and mayinclude a number of suitable types and configurations. During vaping,the vaporizer 618 will be activated to heat the pre-vapor formulation togenerate a vapor that will be drawn through the vapor channel of theupper pod case 604 when a negative pressure is applied to the mouthpieceof the e-vapor device.

FIG. 26 is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vaporapparatus according to an example embodiment. Referring to FIG. 26 , atwist piercing mechanism is employed to actuate the pod assembly 702prior to use. In an example embodiment, the pod assembly 702 includes anupper pod case 704, a cap 706, a foil 707, a foil folder 708, a blade710, a screw 712, a vaporizer 714, an insert 716, a lower pod case 718,a first contact 720, a second contact 722, and a printed circuit board(PCB) 724.

The pod assembly 702 is configured to store a pre-vapor formulationwithin an internal, hermetically-sealed compartment so as to isolate thepre-vapor formulation from other internal elements until the podassembly 702 is actuated for vaping. Because the pre-vapor formulationis isolated from the environment as well as the internal elements of thepod assembly 702 that may potentially react with the pre-vaporformulation, the possibility of adverse effects to the shelf-life and/orsensorial characteristics (e.g., flavor) of the pre-vapor formulationmay be reduced or prevented. The internal, hermetically-sealedcompartment within the pod assembly 702 may be a reservoir defined bythe upper pod case 704, the cap 706, and the foil 707. The foil folder708 may be formed of stainless steel. In an example embodiment, the podassembly 702 may be configured such that the foil 707 is integrated withthe cap 706 for sealing the reservoir. Alternatively, the foil 707 maybe included in the pod assembly 702 as a structure that is separate fromthe cap 706.

The blade 710 may be configured to sit within the upper portion of thescrew 712. The size and shape of the blade 710 may be such that alateral or rotational motion within the upper portion of the screw 712is restricted or precluded while an axial displacement is permitted. InFIG. 26 , the blade 710 is shown as having two pointed tips on oppositesides of a central opening. However, it should be understood thatexample embodiments are not limited thereto. The blade 710 may be formedof stainless steel. Alternatively, the blade 710 may be formed ofplastic if the foil 707 is relatively thin.

The upper portion of the vaporizer 714 is configured to extend throughthe central openings of the screw 712, the blade 710, the foil folder708, and the cap 706 and into a vapor channel within the upper pod case704. The insert 716 is configured to receive the lower portion of thevaporizer 714, and both the insert 716 and the lower portion of thevaporizer 714 are seated in the lower pod case 718. The insert 716 maybe formed of brass. The lower portion of the screw 712 is configured tobe threadedly engaged with the lower pod case 718. The first contact 720and the second contact 722 may be formed of beryllium copper (BeCu).

FIG. 27A is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 26 whenassembled and before actuation. FIG. 27B is a tilted cross-sectionalview of the pod assembly of FIG. 26 when assembled and before actuation.Referring to FIG. 27A and FIG. 27B, the upper pod case 704 is configuredto connect with the cap 706, and the upper portion of the screw 712 isconfigured to be inserted into the cap 706. In an example embodiment,the outer side wall of the screw 712 interfaces with the inner side wallof the cap 706. The lower portion of the screw 712 is threadedly engagedwith the lower pod case 718, and the threaded engagement is configuredsuch that the lower pod case 718 can be rotated in a first direction tomove upwards towards the upper pod case 704. The threaded engagement canalso be configured so as to prevent the lower pod case 718 from becomingunscrewed or detached from the screw 712 when rotated in an oppositesecond direction.

Before actuation, the blade 710 may rest on the upper recessed surfaceof the screw 712 and/or a supporting ridge of the vaporizer 714. Thevaporizer 714 is configured to move with the lower pod case 718. As aresult, a rotation of the lower pod case 718 to move the lower pod case718 will also move the vaporizer 714 (and the insert 716) with it. Thesize and shape of the central opening in the screw 712 is configured topermit the vaporizer 714 to move reversibly therein.

FIG. 28A is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 26 whenassembled and after actuation. FIG. 28B is a tilted cross-sectional viewof the pod assembly of FIG. 26 when assembled and after actuation. FIG.28C is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assembly ofFIG. 26 when assembled and after actuation. Referring to FIG. 28A, FIG.28B, and FIG. 28C, the pod assembly 702 may be actuated by holding theupper pod case 704 and rotating the lower pod case 718 relative to theupper pod case 704. In such an instance, as a result of the rotation,the lower pod case 718 will travel along the threads of the screw 712until the lower pod case 718 is adjacent to or abutting the undersurfaceof the screw 712. Conversely, the pod assembly 702 may be actuated byholding the lower pod case 718 and rotating the upper pod case 704relative to the lower pod case 718. In such an instance, as a result ofthe rotation, the screw 712 will move into the lower pod case 718 untilthe undersurface of the screw 712 is adjacent to or abutting the lowerpod case 718.

The pod assembly 702 may be configured such that the lower pod case 718(or, conversely, the upper pod case 704) undergoes a 360 degree rotationto actuate the pod assembly 702. However, it should be understood thatexample embodiments are not limited thereto. For instance, the podassembly 702 may be designed such that only a 180 degree rotation isneeded for actuation. After the requisite rotation is performed, theupper pod case 704 will be adjacent to and aligned with the lower podcase 718 so as to result in a pod assembly 702 with relativelycontinuous front, side, and rear surfaces and, thus, a more compact formthan the longer, unactuated state shown in FIG. 27A and FIG. 27B.

When the lower pod case 718 (or, conversely, the upper pod case 704) isrotated, the vaporizer 714 will move into the upper pod case 704. As aresult, the blade 710 will also be axially displaced so as to be pushedinto the upper pod case 704 by the supporting ridge of the vaporizer 714so as to pierce and cut the foil 707, thereby releasing the pre-vaporformulation from the reservoir. The inner side wall of the upper portionof the screw 712 (within which the blade 710 is seated) may act as aguide for the axial displacement of the blade 710. The upper portion ofthe vaporizer 714 is configured to extend into the vapor channel withinthe upper pod case 704 in a snug fit manner.

In an example embodiment, the pod assembly 702 may be configured toproduce an audible sound (e.g., click) to indicate to the adult vaperthat the requisite amount of rotation has occurred and, thus, that theblade 710 has been pushed sufficiently inward for actuation. The podassembly 702 may also be configured such that the upper pod case 704 andthe lower pod case 718 will be locked in place so as to not rotate afteractuation. For instance, the audible sound may coincide with the lockingfeature wherein both may be effectuated by a snap-fit type structurethat is configured for rotational engagement.

During the actuation of the pod assembly 702, the blade 710 will pierceand cut the foil 707 so as to release the pre-vapor formulation from thereservoir. Additionally, the foil folder 708 folds the foil 707 backafter (or concurrently with) the piercing and cutting by the blade 710.Furthermore, because of the snug fit of the vaporizer 714 with the upperpod case 704, the possibility of the released pre-vapor formulationleaking from the reservoir directly into the vapor channel afteractuation can be reduced or prevented. The pod assembly 702 may beconfigured such that the pre-vapor formulation released from thereservoir will flow into the vaporizer 714 via a side opening. Thevaporizer 714 includes a heater that will be in thermal and/or fluidiccommunication with the pre-vapor formulation after the pod assembly 702is actuated. During vaping, the vaporizer 714 will be activated to heatthe pre-vapor formulation to generate a vapor that will be drawn throughthe vapor channel of the upper pod case 704 when a negative pressure isapplied to the mouthpiece of the e-vapor device.

FIG. 29 is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vaporapparatus according to an example embodiment. Referring to FIG. 29 , atwist and return mechanism is employed to actuate the pod assembly 802prior to use. In an example embodiment, the pod assembly 802 includes anupper pod case 804, a foil holder 806, a foil 807, a cutter 808, a screw810, a vaporizer 812, a brace 814, an O-ring 816, and a lower pod case818.

The pod assembly 802 is configured to store a pre-vapor formulationwithin an internal, hermetically-sealed compartment so as to isolate thepre-vapor formulation from other internal elements until the podassembly 802 is actuated for vaping. Because the pre-vapor formulationis isolated from the environment as well as the internal elements of thepod assembly 802 that may potentially react with the pre-vaporformulation, the possibility of adverse effects to the shelf-life and/orsensorial characteristics (e.g., flavor) of the pre-vapor formulationmay be reduced or prevented. The internal, hermetically-sealedcompartment within the pod assembly 802 may be a reservoir defined bythe upper pod case 804, the foil holder 806, and the foil 807. In anexample embodiment, the pod assembly 802 may be configured such that thefoil 807 is integrated with the foil holder 806 for sealing thereservoir. Alternatively, the foil 807 may be included in the podassembly 802 as a structure that is separate from the foil holder 806.

The cutter 808 is configured to pierce and cut the foil 807 in order torelease the pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir during theactuation of the pod assembly 802. To effectuate the piercing andcutting, the cutter 808 may include a puncturing/perforating elementthat protrudes from its outer side wall. For instance, thepuncturing/perforating element may be a pair of serrated structuresarranged on opposite sides of the outer side wall of the cutter 808.However, it should be understood that example embodiments are notlimited thereto.

When assembled, the vaporizer 812 will extend through the cutter 808,and both structures will be between the foil holder 806 and the screw810. The cutter 808 is configured to be threadedly engaged with thescrew 810. The brace 814 is configured to engage with a bottom sectionof the foil holder 806. The engagement of the brace 814 with the foilholder 806 may be achieved via a snap-fit connection, a friction fitconnection, an adhesive, or other suitable coupling technique. The outerdiameter of the rim of the screw 810 is larger than the diameter of theopening in the brace 814 due to the presence of the lip on the screw810. The screw 810 is configured to be seated within the lower pod case818. In an example embodiment, the bottom of the screw 810 includes aridge structure that is received within a groove in the lower pod case818. As a result, a rotation of the lower pod case 818 will cause thescrew 810 to also rotate. In this regard, in addition to thegroove/ridge structure example above, it should be understood that othersuitable options may be employed to engage the screw 810 with the lowerpod case 818.

FIG. 30A is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 29 whenassembled and before actuation. FIG. 30B is a tilted cross-sectionalview of the pod assembly of FIG. 29 when assembled and before actuation.FIG. 30C is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assemblyof FIG. 29 when assembled and before actuation. Referring to FIG. 30A,FIG. 30B, and FIG. 30C, the upper pod case 804 is configured to connectwith the foil holder 806. The foil 807 is secured to each of the angledfaces of the foil holder 806 so as to cover the openings in the angledfaces. The foil 807 is designed to hermetically seal the reservoir untilthe pod assembly 802 is actuated. The vaporizer 812 extends through thecutter 808 and the foil holder 806 such that a tip portion of thevaporizer 812 protrudes into a vapor channel within the upper pod case804. The cutter 808 is threadedly engaged with the screw 810, and thescrew 810 is seated within the lower pod case 818. The threadedengagement between the cutter 808 and the screw 810 may be configuredsuch that the cutter 808 will move upwards towards the upper pod case804 when the screw 810 is rotated (via the lower pod case 818) in afirst direction. Conversely, in such an example embodiment, the threadedengagement may be configured such that the cutter 808 will movedownwards to its original position and, thus, towards the lower pod case818 when the screw 810 is rotated (via the lower pod case 818) in anopposite second direction.

When the pod assembly 802 is in an unactuated (or resealed) state, asshown in FIG. FIG. 30B, and FIG. 30C, the cutter 808 will be adjacent toor abutting the bottom of the inner, recessed surface of the screw 810.In this unactuated state, a side opening in the vaporizer 812 (throughwhich a pre-vapor formulation will enter after actuation) will becovered by the cutter 808. In an example embodiment, the inner surfaceof the cutter 808 may also be lined with a film or layer (e.g., siliconefilm) that is impervious to pre-vapor formulation in order to help closethe side opening of the vaporizer 812 when entry of the pre-vaporformulation is not desired, such as when the pod assembly 802 has beenresealed after actuation (which will be subsequently discussed infurther detail).

The pod assembly 802 may be actuated by holding the upper pod case 804and rotating the lower pod case 818 relative to the upper pod case 804.Alternatively, the pod assembly 802 may be actuated by holding the lowerpod case 818 and rotating the upper pod case 804 relative to the lowerpod case 818. In addition, the pod assembly 802 may be configured suchthat the lower pod case 818 (or, alternatively, the upper pod case 804)undergoes a 360 degree rotation to actuate the pod assembly 802.However, it should be understood that example embodiments are notlimited thereto. For instance, the pod assembly 802 may be designed suchthat only a 180 degree rotation is needed for actuation. Duringactuation, the above-discussed rotation will cause the cutter 808 tomove upwards so as to pierce and cut the foil 807 covering each of theopenings in the angled faces of the foil holder 806, which will therebyrelease the pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir.

FIG. 31A is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 29 whenassembled and after actuation. FIG. 31B is a tilted cross-sectional viewof the pod assembly of FIG. 29 when assembled and after actuation. FIG.31C is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assembly ofFIG. 29 when assembled and after actuation. Referring to FIG. 31A, FIG.31B, and FIG. 31C, when the pod assembly 802 is in an actuated state,the cutter 808 will be adjacent to or abutting the underside of the foilholder 806. As a result, the puncturing/perforating elements on theouter side wall of the cutter 808 will protrude through the openings inthe angled faces of the foil holder 806, thereby piercing and cuttingthe associated foils 807 so as to release the pre-vapor formulation fromthe reservoir. In addition, the side opening in the vaporizer 812 willbe aligned with a side opening in the cutter 808 to permit the entry ofthe pre-vapor formulation released from the reservoir into the vaporizer812 via the aligned side openings. The vaporizer 812 includes a heaterthat will be in thermal and/or fluidic communication with the releasedpre-vapor formulation after the pod assembly 802 is actuated. Duringvaping, the vaporizer 812 will be activated to heat the pre-vaporformulation to generate a vapor that will be drawn through the vaporchannel of the upper pod case 804 when a negative pressure is applied tothe mouthpiece of the e-vapor device.

The actuated pod assembly 802 may also be switched from being open (FIG.31A, FIG. 31B, and FIG. 31C) back to being closed (FIG. 30A, FIG. 30B,and FIG. 30C) by changing the position of the cutter 808. In thiscontext, the term “open” should be understood to mean a state where theside opening of the vaporizer 812 is not covered by the cutter 808. Incontrast, the term “closed” should be understood to mean a state wherethe side opening of the vaporizer 812 is covered/resealed. The podassembly 802 may be closed by moving the cutter 808 back down to itsoriginal position to cover/reseal the side opening of the vaporizer 812.The return of the cutter 808 to its original position (towards the lowerpod case 818) can be effectuated by rotating the screw 810 (via thelower pod case 818) in the opposite second direction to therebycover/reseal the side opening of the vaporizer 812. The cutter 808 maybe regarded as a shuttle-type structure due to its ability to move upand down in order to switch the pod assembly 802 from being closed tobeing open or vice versa. When resealed, the entry of further pre-vaporformulation into the vaporizer 812 may be precluded. As a result, thepod assembly 802 can be stored with a reduced risk of leakage.

FIG. 32 is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vaporapparatus according to an example embodiment. Referring to FIG. 32 , thepod assembly 902 has a simplified pod construction. In an exampleembodiment, the pod assembly 902 includes an upper pod case 904, avaporizer 906, a seal 908, a lower pod case 910, electrical contacts912, a connector case 914, a sensor 916, a printed circuit board (PCB)918, a data pin connector 920, and a data pin 922. The electricalcontacts 912 and the data pin 922 may be formed of beryllium copper(BeCu). The connector case 914 and the data pin connector 920 may beformed of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). The sensor 916 may be a flowsensor, and the flow sensor may be formed of a nickel-iron alloy.

FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of FIG. 32 whenassembled. Referring to FIG. 33 , the pod assembly 902 includes an upperpod case 904 that is configured to connect with the lower pod case 910via the seal 908. The pod assembly 902 is configured such that apre-vapor formulation stored therein is already in thermal and/orfluidic communication with a heater within the vaporizer 906. As aresult, no actuation is needed to internally release the pre-vaporformulation prior to inserting the pod assembly 902 into a dispensingbody of an e-vapor device. However, it should be understood that theother internal elements of the pod assembly 902 (e.g., electronics) maybe isolated from the pre-vapor formulation by virtue of at least theseal 908. The sector of the pod assembly 902 above the seal 908 may beregarded as the pre-vapor formulation compartment, while the sector ofthe pod assembly 902 below the seal 908 may be regarded as the devicecompartment. During vaping, the vaporizer 906 will be activated to heatthe pre-vapor formulation to generate a vapor that will be drawn throughthe vapor channel of the upper pod case 904 when a negative pressure isapplied to the mouthpiece of the e-vapor device.

FIG. 34 is a partial view of an e-vapor apparatus with the pod assemblyof FIG. 33 inserted in a dispensing body according to an exampleembodiment. Referring to FIG. 34 , the pod assembly 902 may be heldwithin the dispensing body 924 in a variety of ways. In an exampleembodiment, a mouthpiece seal may secure a top portion of the podassembly 902, while an electrical connector may secure a bottom portionof the pod assembly 902 and act as an electrical interface between thepod assembly 902 and the dispensing body 924. The mouthpiece seal may beformed of silicone and acts as a vapor interface between the vaporchannel of the pod assembly 902 and the vapor passage of the dispensingbody 924 so as to facilitate a delivery of the vapor through the vaporpassage of the dispensing body 924 when a negative pressure is appliedto the mouthpiece.

The mouthpiece of the dispensing body 924 may have different parts andconfigurations for aesthetic reasons (e.g., outer piece to complementthe look and feel of the e-vapor device) and/or for functional reasons(e.g., inner piece to adjust the temperature of the vapor and/or toreduce the turbulence of the vapor). Thus, a number of differentmouthpieces may be utilized with the e-vapor device depending on thepreferences of an adult vaper. In this regard, the mouthpiece isdesigned to be removable and interchangeable (e.g., via a bayonetconnection). Alternative configurations for the mouthpiece are disclosedin U.S. application Ser. No. 29/575,895 (Atty. Dkt. No. 24000-000325-US(ALCS2829)), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein byreference. In addition, alternative configurations for the dispensingbody are disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 29/575,887 (Atty. Dkt.No. 24000-000327-US (ALCS2829)), the entire contents of which areincorporated herein by reference. Alternative configurations for the podassembly are also disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 29/575,881(Atty. Dkt. No. 24000-000326-US (ALCS 2829)), the entire contents ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, alternativeconfigurations for the overall e-vapor device are disclosed in U.S.application Ser. No. 29/575,883 (Atty. Dkt. No. 24000-000308-US(ALCS2829)), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein byreference. Based on the present teachings and although not necessarilyset forth expressly herein, it should be appreciated that variousfeatures and combinations from one embodiment may be suitable andapplicable for other embodiments depending on the desired effectsprovided by such features and combinations.

While a number of example embodiments have been disclosed herein, itshould be understood that other variations may be possible. Suchvariations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit andscope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications as would beobvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within thescope of the following claims.

1. A pod assembly for an e-vapor apparatus, comprising: a plurality ofexternal surfaces including a front face, a rear face opposite the frontface, a downstream end, and an upstream end opposite the downstream end,the downstream end defining a single outlet, portions of the front faceand the rear face being curved; a liquid compartment configured to holda liquid formulation; a vaporizer compartment in fluidic communicationwith the liquid compartment, the vaporizer compartment being adjacent tothe upstream end, the vaporizer compartment being between the liquidcompartment and the upstream end, the vaporizer compartment configuredto heat the liquid formulation, the vaporizer compartment including aceramic and an electrically resistive material, the electricallyresistive material including a metal alloy; a vapor channel extendingfrom the vaporizer compartment and through the liquid compartment, thesingle outlet aligned with a longitudinal axis of the vapor channel; anda plurality of electrical contacts at the upstream end and electricallyconnected to the electrically resistive material in the vaporizercompartment.